Use a Metal Polish (Hand)

One of the most common ways to polish aluminum is by using a metal polish. This type of polish is readily available in most hardware stores and is relatively easy to use. Simply apply the polish to the aluminum surface and rub it in with a soft cloth. Once you have applied the polish, use another clean cloth to buff the aluminum until it shines. While hand polishing can be effective for small areas, it can be time-consuming and may not produce the best results for larger surfaces.

Use a Buffer (Machine)

If you have a large aluminum surface to polish, you may want to consider using a buffer. A buffer is a machine that uses a spinning pad to apply the polish to the aluminum. Buffers can be rented from most hardware stores and are ideal for large surfaces, such as automotive parts. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a buffer to avoid damaging the aluminum. While using a buffer can produce good results, it can get expensive. It is also difficult to use on curved surfaces.

Why Wet Blasting is the Best Option

Wet blasting is the best option for polishing aluminum for several reasons. Firstly, wet blasting is much faster than traditional polishing methods. It can remove dirt and grime from the surface of the aluminum in a matter of minutes. In contrast, traditional polishing methods can take hours.

Secondly, it produces a cleaner surface that locks out grease and grime. When you are wet blasting aluminum, the aluminum fibers on the surface of the metal are rolled, creating the visually appealing polished look. This also creates a more interlocked surface that is much more resilient to further contamination.

Finally, wet blasting is much gentler on aluminum than traditional methods, due to the inclusion of water in the process. The abrasive you are blasting with is also softer than the metal you are blasting. This means unlike traditional methods, which can permanently damage aluminum, wet blasting is safe, making it perfect for antique parts.